Two killed while cleaning septic tank in Rampal's ashram

New Delhi: Despite tall claims by government agencies of curbing manual scavenging, two more deaths report came from the Capital on Monday afternoon. The incident was reported from the ashram of jailed self-styled godman Rampal when two workers-Makhan Raj and Amarjeet-succumbed while cleaning the septic tank.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer) Pankaj Singh told Millennium Post that the incident was reported from the premises of the ashram in Outer Delhi's Mundka area. "The incident came to light around 4 pm on Monday when we received a PCR call after which our team rushed to the spot. Three victims were rushed to the hospital where two were declared brought dead," said Singh.

Police claimed that one person identified as Mukesh (23) was battling for his life at the hospital. "We are investigating whether the person was wearing any safety gear before entering the tank," said a senior police official.

Police sources claimed that Makhan Raj entered the septic tank first and inhaled the toxic fumes after which he collapsed inside the tank. After a while, Amarjeet entered the tank where he also passed out. The same thing happened with Mukesh. People near the spot alerted police and the victims were taken out of the tank. "The deceased were the followers of Rampal and were living in the ashram," said a police official. According to police, they will now probe the negligence angle.